How long is a 'reasonable time'?

If you want to reject the goods and claim a full refund this should be done as soon as possible. The Sale of Goods Act 1979 (as amended) provides that you have accepted the goods once you have had a reasonable opportunity to examine them. If you wish a refund, the burden of proof is on the consumer (i.e. you) to prove there is a manufacturing defect.


If you would rather accept a repair or replacement, the trader must be advised of the fault within 6 months of delivery. It then becomes the trader's responsibility to prove the goods were not faulty on delivery, as the law assumes they were.